HMX Blue Topaz vs. Jwick Ginger Milk
An in-depth look at the HMX Blue Topaz and the Jwick Ginger Milk switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, both offer a unique typing experience. The Blue Topaz stands out with its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, providing a breezy typing experience along with a visually appealing glittery housing that produces a clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Ginger Milk offers a softer and pastel aesthetic, paired with a silky smooth push feel and a muted, snappy sound profile. While the Blue Topaz is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Ginger Milk falls into the categories of 'Neutral' and 'Buttery'. Both switches have their own merits that cater to different preferences, however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the HMX Blue Topaz and Jwick Ginger Milk switches feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is especially useful for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing contributes to the overall aesthetics of the switch, making it a popular choice among keyboard enthusiasts.
On the other hand, the Blue Topaz and Ginger Milk switches differ in their bottom housing material, with the Blue Topaz utilizing nylon and the Ginger Milk also featuring a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing.
Despite the differences in their bottom housing material, both the Blue Topaz and Ginger Milk switches offer a balance of qualities between the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This allows users to experience a blend of sharpness and depth in the sound profile of each keystroke.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz is lighter than the Ginger Milk. The Blue Topaz requires a mere 40 grams of actuation force and 48 grams of bottom out force, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Ginger Milk has a higher actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who enjoy a heavier push. Both switches offer a similar linear typing experience, but the Ginger Milk would be favored by those looking for a bit more resistance in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and weight considerations.
Travel distance
The HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm, while the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Both switches have slightly shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm distance. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Ginger Milk for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Blue Topaz with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, while the Blue Topaz has a slightly longer travel distance, both switches offer a similar experience with a relatively short travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
The Jwick Ginger Milk has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ginger Milk for $4.25.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
In terms of sound, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is known for its clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. This sound profile provides a crisp and bright auditory feedback to users, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wider range of users and environments. The muted and snappy sound of the Ginger Milk switch is less intrusive and provides a softer typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering a gentle resistance during key presses. The light actuation force required for these switches makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. This enhanced typing experience provides a responsive and low-impact feel to users. Conversely, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch is described as buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Users can expect a seamless and uniform typing sensation with the Ginger Milk switches, creating a pleasant and effortless typing experience.
Overall, while the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch offers a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch provides a neutral sound profile with a buttery typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the distinctive glitter housing and lightweight feel of the Blue Topaz switch or the soft pastel aesthetics and approachable push feel of the Ginger Milk switch. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience and can deliver similar results depending on the user's specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch and the Jwick Ginger Milk linear switch, you should consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a lighter switch with a bottom out force of 48 grams, a clacky sound signature, and an easy-to-press feel, then the Blue Topaz might be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, a neutral sound profile, and a buttery typing experience, then the Ginger Milk might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and what feels best for your typing style.
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